Along with giving its annual awards, the National Automotive Finance Association elected five new members to its board of directors during last week’s Non-Prime Auto Financing Conference in Plano, Texas.

Beginning a two-year term following a vote held during the membership meeting, the newly elected directors include:

—Mike Akers, president and CEO of Hello Credit Union

—Mark Baltuska, vice president of finance company markets with State National Companies

—Cheryl Cabral, executive vice president of Ironhorse Funding

—Mark Edelman, partner with McGlinchey Stafford

—Sang O’Neill, chief credit officer with First Help Financial

Executive director Jennifer Martin reiterated the NAF Association’s board of directors plays a key role in guiding the organization’s strategic priorities and ensuring the continued value and relevance of its programs within the non-prime auto finance sector, including peer roundtables and professional development events.

“We’re excited to welcome these five professionals to the board,” Martin said in a news release. “Their expertise and insights will contribute greatly to the Association’s continued mission to provide education, industry research, and meaningful networking opportunities for our members.”

In addition to welcoming new directors, the NAF Association also announced its 2025 executive committee, which includes:

—Chair: Claudia Plascencia, senior vice president with Resolvion

—President: Suzi Straffon, director of finance company markets with Allied Solutions

—Vice President: Matt Burke, CEO of Center Street Finance

—Secretary: Jeff Anderson, vice president of auto specialty products with SWBC

—Treasurer: David Baker, senior vice president of Regional Acceptance Corp.

To view the full board of directors or learn more about the NAF Association, visit www.nafassociation.com.